Back in 2003, George W. Bush made a statement against torture in the world.
Of course, at the time he released those words, he had already approved a program that "authorized" torture.
I will just quote a few passages from Bush's statement, and make a short comment on them. Ultimately, these remarks speak for themselves, in their rank hypocrisy and mendacity.
Today, on the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, the United States declares its strong solidarity with torture victims across the world. Torture anywhere is an affront to human dignity everywhere. We are committed to building a world where human rights are respected and protected by the rule of law.
Unless those people are in the custody of the United States.
Notorious human rights abusers, including, among others, Burma, Cuba, North Korea, Iran, and Zimbabwe
and the United States of America
have long sought to shield their abuses from the eyes of the world by staging elaborate deceptions and denying access to international human rights monitors.
Indeed.
(a bunch of posturing about the awful Saddam Hussein removed)
The United States is committed to the world-wide elimination of torture and we are leading this fight by example.
Oh Really?
I call on all governments to join with the United States and the community
Excuse me?
Here's something I can agree with:
No people, no matter where they reside, should have to live in fear of their own government.
Unfortunately, George W. Bush decided that the USA should behave in the opposite fashion.
Nowhere should the midnight knock foreshadow a nightmare of state-commissioned crime.
Unless the Bush regime is doing it.
he suffering of torture victims must end,
Wow, something I can agree with again! Unfortunately, it is followed by this:
and the United States calls on all governments to assume this great mission.
which is a fucking joke.